MANILA, Philippines – The Partido Demokratiko Pilipino–Lakas ng Bayan (PDP Laban) has strongly condemned what it calls the unjust arrest of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte by the Philippine National Police (PNP) under the leadership of PNP Chief Rommel Marbil and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Director Nicolas Torre.

The party criticized the reported enforcement of an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC), calling it an infringement on the country’s judicial system and a violation of Philippine sovereignty.

“This arrest is an outright attack on our sovereignty,” PDP Laban said in a statement late Tuesday night. 

The former chief executive has been arrested following an arrest warrant from the international tribunal about the alleged crimes against humanity during Duterte’s war on drugs campaign. 

“The Philippines ceased to be a member of the ICC in March 2019, and any attempt to impose its jurisdiction disregards our national independence,” it said. 

The party further accused the Marcos administration of surrendering to external influence by allowing the ICC’s involvement in Duterte’s case.

“The Marcos administration’s cooperation with the ICC is a betrayal of our nation,” PDP Laban said. 

“By allowing this arrest, it has effectively submitted the Philippines to a foreign body that we are no longer bound to recognize,” it said.

PDP Laban also decried the alleged denial of Duterte’s request for a medical examination, which was recommended by his personal doctor.

“This is not just about politics; this is a violation of fundamental human rights,” the statement continued. “Denying a former head of state access to medical care is inhumane and unacceptable.”

The party vowed to stand firm in its pursuit of justice for the former president.

“PDP Laban will not waver. We will remain steadfast in our fight for justice for former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte,” it said.